A capsule wardrobe is a great packing or overall life hack if you want to minimize and streamline your wardrobe. I love bringing a curated assortment of capsule pieces with me on trips to maximize my style without overpacking. Below are my must-have essentials for a fabulous capsule wardrobe.
20 Must-Have Essentials to Include in a Capsule Wardrobe
Tops & Dresses
1. Pretty blouse and/or simple button-down shirt: Whether you go elegant or simple (or both), pick a top that will go with a wide variety of bottoms.
2. Collection of striped t-shirts: Add a pop of pattern under a blazer or pair with casual blue jeans.
3. Fun, laid-back sweater: Perfect for chilly fall nights, pair with dressy black jeans for the perfect, cozy date night look.
4. Flattering everyday dress: That dress you can throw on and instantly look put together.
5. Splurge-worthy special occasion dress: Weddings, work cocktail parties, etc. Always have that sparkly and special little number ready to go.
Bottoms
6. Tailored black or khaki pants: Wear for interviews or to work, instantly upping your sleek style game.
7. Dressy black jeans: How to be casual but still look put together.
8. Relaxed blue jeans: Roll up the cuffs in spring for perfect Saturday afternoon comfort.
9. Classic pencil skirt: Go with classic black, pick a bold color or even a pattern! This silhouette flatters every body type and will never go out of style.
Jackets
10. Denim jacket: Levi’s makes durable denim jackets that are affordable and come in every wash imaginable. Jazz it up with patches or paint to make it your own.
11. Oversize blazer: For a fun menswear-inspired look.
12. Leather jacket: One of the pricier capsule wardrobe items, pick an iconic style and you will wear it for a lifetime.
Bags
13. Cool evening bag: Find something that works with your special occasion dress – keep it elegant or find something bolder – like a colorful acrylic box or something bedazzled.
14. Crossbody: A travel must-have. Go with something simple. I also recommend leather for longer wear.
15. Roomy work tote: Cuyana makes some of the best totes on the market. Make sure the tote is sturdy but flexible and bonus points if it has pockets inside.
Accessories
16. Fancy belt: I’m partial to the Gucci Double G belts but shop around until you find one you absolutely love.
17. Day-to-night jewelry: Classic gold jewelry with a little sparkle.
18. Every shoe style in black: Think loafers, pumps, tennis shoes, etc.
19. Everyday sunglasses: Find a style that feels like you and let them be your statement piece.
20. Versatile scarf: I love blanket scarves for traveling, but also smaller silk ones. Use them to tie around your ponytail, around your neck or even your handbag or wrist for a pop of color.
What’s the one item in your wardrobe you absolutely cannot live without? Tweet me @lorenridinger.
